Katherine Johnson: NASA's Hidden Figure and Math Genius

Catherine Johnson was a pioneering African American mathematician whose work at NASA was crucial to the success of U.S. space missions. Born in 1918, she excelled in mathematics from a young age, graduating from college at 18. Despite facing racial and gender barriers, she made significant contributions to NASA's space programs, including calculating trajectories for key missions. Her work was so trusted that astronaut John Glenn requested her verification of computer calculations before his flight. Johnson received numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and her story was featured in the film 'Hidden Figures'. She passed away in 2020, leaving a lasting legacy as a trailblazer in science and mathematics.

What role did Katherine Johnson play in verifying calculations for John Glenn's orbit?

What honors and awards did Katherine Johnson receive throughout her career?

In what year was Katherine Johnson born, and when did she pass away?